Bullz-Eye Blog » Holiday Gift Guidehttp://blog.bullz-eye.com
men's lifestyle blog, blog for guysFri, 09 Dec 2016 19:32:13 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.102016 Holiday Gift Guide: Gameshttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/09/2016-holiday-gift-guide-games/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/09/2016-holiday-gift-guide-games/#commentsFri, 09 Dec 2016 14:00:02 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60488The holiday season is the video game industry’s busiest time of year, with publishers saving many of their marquee titles to release on the public like an avalanche of digital goodness. It can actually be quite overwhelming with so many different options to choose from, so we’ve done our best to put together a collection of what we feel are some of the year’s finest games.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

Gears of War 4

Set 25 years after Marcus Fenix defeated the Locust Horde once and for all, “Gears of War 4” finds Marcus’ son JD leading a group of ex-COG soldiers against a mysterious new threat. Though the game is pretty much business as usual for fans of the series, “Gears of War 4” does introduce a few changes that improve and shake up the overall gameplay. In addition to several new weapons (including our personal favorite, the Buzzkill, which shoots circular saws that can ricochet off walls), the emergence of extreme weather phenomena called Windflares affect combat with strong winds, flying debris and more. Story mode is also a lot more difficult thanks to A.I. enemies that pile on the pressure instead of sitting back and waiting for you to attack. Of course, while the single-player (or co-op) campaign serves as a nice refresher course for those who haven’t played “Gears of War” in awhile, online multiplayer is still the game’s bread and butter. All of the usual modes are here, along with newcomers like Dodgeball and Arms Race to ensure you don’t get bored. Though “Gears of War 4” isn’t as groundbreaking as the original, it’s an enjoyable franchise reboot that keeps everything that was great about the previous installments and builds on it.

Batman: The Telltale Series

Telltale Games has been on a real streak lately with high-profile titles like “The Walking Dead,” “The Wolf Among Us” and “Game of Thrones,” but the company’s latest episodic game features perhaps their biggest IP yet. Though it’s not as instantly captivating as some of the aforementioned titles, “Batman: The Telltale Series” delivers the tried and tested combo of choice-based dialogue, puzzle solving and quicktime action scenes that we’ve come to expect. The game doesn’t explore the World’s Greatest Detective angle quite as much as it should, but that’s largely because you spend more time playing as Bruce Wayne, digging into his family’s secret history after it’s revealed that his father may not have been the saint he appeared to be. With that said, the Batman sequences are a lot more fun, whether you’re devising a plan of attack, stringing together clues at a crime scene or battling one of his many iconic villains. As with most Telltale games, the storytelling is stronger than the gameplay, but fans of their click-and-point adventures (and Batman in general) will find plenty to enjoy.

LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens

The LEGO video games are always good fun, but the folks at Traveller’s Tales (who have been in charge of the long-running franchise since 2005) have really outdone themselves with their latest installment, “LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” In addition to retelling the events of the blockbuster film with the typical LEGO humor, the game features new story levels set before the movie, including one where Poe Dameron has to rescue Admiral Ackbar and another that reveals the mystery of C-3PO’s red arm. Although past LEGO games have been criticized for pretty much playing the same way, “LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens” seeks to remedy that with a few key changes. The new Multi-Builds system gives players more choice when solving puzzles (e.g., you can build multiple items with the same pile of bricks), while the shooter-style Blaster Battles and arena-based dogfights prevent the gameplay from getting monotonous. At the end of the day, it’s still the same “LEGO [Insert Movie Title Here]” game that the company has been cranking out for years, but it’s one of their most enjoyable yet.

Batman: Return to Arkham

Whether you never got around to playing Rocksteady’s first two Batman titles (“Arkham Asylum” and “Arkham City”) during their initial release, or you just want to experience them all over again, “Batman: Return to Arkham” brings the critically acclaimed games to the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 for the first time, completely remastered and featuring every piece of additional content. The upgraded graphics are without a doubt the biggest draw of “Return to Arkham,” and with the exception of a few quibbles, they’re a major improvement over the original versions. Though the gaming industry has changed a lot in the years since their release, both titles are still really solid stealth/action games that hold up remarkably well. That’s as much a credit to the outstanding gameplay as the visual enhancements that have been made, and it shows why Warner Bros. Interactive and Virtuous would invest the time and money to remaster them. Granted, it would have been nice if they had also included the series’ third installment, “Arkham Origins,” but there’s more than enough value here to warrant the upgrade.

Turtle Beach Elite Pro Tournament Headset & Tactical Audio Controller

Turtle Beach has long been one of the most respected brands in the gaming industry when it comes to delivering a first-rate audio experience, and they show no signs of slowing down with their new Elite Pro Tournament Headset. Featuring 50mm Nanoclear speakers that provide more efficient, crisper sound and a detachable, professional grade microphone with TruSpeak Technology, the Elite Pro doesn’t disappoint. However, what really makes the headset stand out is its incredible comfort. From the cool, gel-infused memory foam on the Asahi spandex ear cushions, to the ability to adjust headband tension, ear-cup position and even eyeglasses relief in the ear cushions, the headset can be worn for hours without problem. The supplementary Tactical Audio Controller (which can be purchased separately or together with the headset) offers gamers a more robust audio experience with 7.1 Surround Sound, fingertip control of mic and chat settings including a background noise limiter and outbound mic boost, as well as the capability to create an instant local chat network by linking multiple audio controllers. For the hardcore gamer or audiophile in your life, this is as close to a sure thing as you can buy.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/09/2016-holiday-gift-guide-games/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: Guy Stuffhttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-guy-stuff/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-guy-stuff/#commentsThu, 08 Dec 2016 15:00:13 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60467Guys are pretty easy to shop for. Most of the time, you can just get stuff that you’d buy for yourself. Of course, you sometimes have to cast a wider net, because tastes obviously vary, but at least you can pick up some stuff for yourself while you’re browsing.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

Philips Sonicare FlexCare Platinum Connected

We’ve tested some Philips Sonicare products in the past, but the FlexCare Platinum Connected does something the others don’t by using Bluetooth technology to deliver the most complete cleaning experience yet. The FlexCare Platinum Connected takes the guesswork out of your oral care routine by using smart sensors that send your brushing data to the free Sonicare app in real-time, providing you personalized coaching and feedback. The Location Sensor highlights any spots you missed during cleaning, while the Pressure Sensor will alert you if you’re brushing too hard. You can also track trouble areas (like plaque buildup, gum recession and potential cavities) in your personalized 3D mouth map, reminding you to give them extra attention each time you brush, as well as set goals and share data with your dentist professional. The FlexCare Platinum Connected has three different brushing modes (Clean, White and Deep Clean) and three different intensity settings, and the included charger even comes with a UV brush head sanitizer. It may seem a bit over the top for everyday consumers, but for those who struggle with daily oral care or just want to learn more about their brushing habits, this makes the perfect gift.

E-Z UP Vantage Shelter

Whether your loved one is an outdoor enthusiast, a business professional looking to showcase their brand, or just a diehard sports fan who wants the best tailgating experience, E-Z UP makes some great recreational pop-up shelters that are stylish, sturdy and easy to assemble. Available in a number of different designs (from the lightweight Vista to the best-in-class Eclipse), we sampled the super-durable Vantage model and came away very impressed. Featuring 100 square feet of shade and cross truss reinforcement inside the shelter to help withstand tough conditions, the Vantage stood strong in cold Midwest weather… and that was before we even secured it to the ground using the optional metal spikes. The E-Z UP Vantage comes in eight different colors and includes a sturdy roller bag that makes it incredibly easy to store and transport, which is a good thing, because this sucker is pretty heavy. Additionally, E-Z UP offers an array of accessories to make your shelter even better, including Event Lights that illuminate the interior, Half Walls for extra shade and weight bags for additional support.

VARIDESK Laptop 30 Standing Desk

If you know anyone who works from home or just spends a lot of time in front of the computer, a standing desk can be a great investment. Not only does it help those with neck and back problems, but recent studies have also proven that it can improve cognitive skills and productivity as well as reduce the risk of obesity. You don’t have to worry about replacing your current workspace, either, because VARIDESK offers a series of compact options that sit on top of your existing desk. The Laptop 30 is perfect for notebook users who don’t need a ton of room; it’s fairly compact (measuring 25” x 30”) and features two work surfaces – an upper display table and a sliding base tray – that can be utilized whether in the lowered sitting position or lifted standing position. What surprised us most about the Laptop 30, however, is just how well-made it is. It’s incredibly sturdy at any height and features a patented two-handle, spring-assisted lifting mechanism that makes moving the desk up and down very easy and safe. We’ve only been using the VARIDESK for a couple weeks now, but already, we can’t imagine working without one ever again.

Daniel Wellington Watches

This new line of simple and classic watches offers some beautiful styles that will appeal to men with a wide variety of tastes. The stainless steel watch with the striped nylon band pictured here is one of many elegant styles you can choose from. These DW watches are affordable with a classy, minimalist style. Options with brown and black leather bands are also available. While browsing the selections on Amazon, you may end up buying one for yourself as well.

M.Gemi Belts and Shoes

Have you tried buying a nice belt recently? So many of them are made in China with fake leather, and they fall apart after limited use. Check out M.Gemi for beautiful Italian belts or shoes and you’ll find well-crafted, high-end Italian-made products without astronomical luxury price tags. The prices aren’t cheap, but they’re fair given the level of design and quality. Even those who are difficult to shop for will appreciate something as simple as a well-made belt or classy leather shoes.

MakerBot Replicator+ 3D Printer

The 3D printing revolution may have slowed down a bit in recent years, but the interest in these machines continues to grow. The Replicator+ 3D printer from MakerBot is one of the best choices on the market due to its ease of use, and although it carries a hefty price tag, it’s actually much less expensive than professional 3D printers, making it more accessible to hobbyists. Compared to the 5th generation MakerBot desktop model, projects print 30% faster and adhere better to the new grip surface, resulting in reduced warping and curling. Additionally, creators can visit Makerbot’s Thingiverse site and browse the countless designs that have been uploaded by the community, all of which are available for use. The site enables users to create and remix 3D things regardless of technical expertise or previous experience, and all designs are encouraged to be licensed under a Creative Commons license so that anyone can use or alter any design. The Replicator+ is admittedly a pretty niche gift idea, but for artists and designers who want to express themselves, it’s a worthy investment.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-guy-stuff/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: For the Homehttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-home/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-home/#commentsThu, 08 Dec 2016 14:00:51 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60453Gifts like these might not be the most romantic if you’re buying for your wife or girlfriend, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find cool stuff that will put a smile on their face. Products for the home can be just as desirable if you focus on items with great design or that make someone’s life a lot easier, and if you stick to those simple guidelines, you’ll make whoever is on the receiving end very happy.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

Logitech Harmony Elite Remote

If your entertainment center is anything like ours, it’s overflowing with set-top boxes, streaming devices, gaming consoles and audio receivers… and with them, a small army of remote controls. So why aren’t there more options available for universal remotes like the Logitech Harmony Elite? Probably because nobody could make one as good as this. The latest addition to the Harmony family is the most powerful and intuitive remote yet, featuring a full-color touchscreen and the ability to manage up to 15 entertainment and smart home devices. It’s compatible with more than 270,000 products and can connect to Alexa for voice control, while the included Harmony Hub allows you to control devices in closed cabinets, even when you’re not home thanks to the free iOS/Android app. The best feature, however, is the option to create one-touch Activities like “Watch Apple TV,” “Play Xbox One” or “Dinner Party” that will automatically power on all the correct devices and switch them to the right settings. It takes a little patience to set up, but once it’s ready to go, you’ll be amazed how you went so long without having a Harmony remote in your life.

eero Home Wi-Fi System

Wi-Fi can be a fickle mistress; just when you need it most (e.g. it’s Sunday night and you’ve just settled down to watch “Game of Thrones” in your man cave downstairs), there’s either no signal or the connection is poor. Enter the eero Home Wi-Fi System, a set of small access points that are placed throughout the house (with each device typically covering 1,000 square feet) and automatically connect to create a single wireless mesh network, eliminating the need for a wireless router and range extenders. The sleek, minimalist design blends in with virtually any décor, and it’s incredibly easy to set up, although it works better in homes with a more open floorplan where the eeros can see one another. The accompanying iOS and Android app allows you to set up family profiles to help manage schedules for internet usage or pause internet access altogether, and you can even test internet speeds and provide temporary guest access right from your phone. Though the eero still has some growing pains to endure before it becomes a must-have gadget in every household (especially at its $500 price point), for early adopters desperate for a Wi-Fi solution, you’d be hard-pressed finding a better option.

Logi Circle Home Security Camera

The home security industry has really opened up with the rise of smart devices, particularly as far as video surveillance is concerned. Just about every major tech company has a security camera on the market, but we really like the Logi Circle from Logitech for its price, functionality and ease of use. The camera boasts a 135-degree wide angle lens with 1080p HD live streaming and ultra-clear night vision, as well as a built-in speaker and microphone for real-time communication. Setup is crazy fast – we spent more time looking for instructions (hint: there are none) than it took the Logi Circle to connect to our Wi-Fi network – and you can even remove the camera from its magnetic charging ring/mount to use in another room for up to 12 hours. Of course, a home security camera is only as good as its software, and the Logi Circle app has some pretty cool features, including Advanced Smart Filtering that identifies and records important motion for easy scanning; a Day Brief timelapse feature that provides a 30-second recap of the day; and mobile alerts for motion detection, low battery and network connection. Although you’ll have to pay a subscription fee for monthly cloud storage, unlike its competitors, Logi Circle grants its users free access to the past 24 hours.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/08/2016-holiday-gift-guide-for-the-home/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: Boozehttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-booze/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-booze/#commentsTue, 06 Dec 2016 16:00:08 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60406Walk into any liquor store and you’ll see hundreds of options. You can zero in on someone’s favorite drink when picking a gift, or you can get creative and choose something they wouldn’t buy for themselves. Also, remember that you don’t want to come to a party empty-handed, so get in the habit of at least bringing a bottle.

Laphroaig Select Scotch Whisky

We sometimes like to imagine master distillers as mad scientists of sorts, mixing up solutions late at night as they eagerly search for the next cure-all elixir. The story behind Laphroaig’s Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky, while not as dramatic, confirms at least a few of our suspicions. Select is a combination of four Laphroaig whiskies — Quarter Cask, PX Cask, Triple Wood and 10 Year Old — brought together in new American Oak casks for a final maturation period. The resulting creation is described by Master Distiller John Campbell as “peat, ash and spice wrapped in a blanket of sweetness.” Our thoughts exactly. Upon first taste, one cannot escape the wave of smoke that permeates the aromatics and personality of this scotch. This is what the island of Islay is known for producing, after all. The signature peat may feel overpowering to the novice drinker, but subsequent sips reveal a surprising uniformity and balance underlined by a soft sweetness. Its subtle complexity invites the drinker to further exploration, without a punishing burn. All in all, we found Laphroaig Select to be a very approachable scotch, both in taste and in price ($44.99). Well-liked by our friends and family, we certainly recommend it for yours.

Crown Royal Vanilla Whisky

Crown Royal Whisky has always been easily identified thanks to the distinctive purple velvet bag with gold drawstrings that each bottle comes in. It’s been that way since 1939, when King George VI and his wife Queen Elizabeth visited Canada and were honored with this blend from Manitoba. But Crown Royal has continued to innovate since then, with each release being sold in a uniquely colored collector’s pouch. Their latest creation from the Flavor Series is Crown Royal Vanilla Whisky, boasting infused Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla. And as one might imagine, you don’t create a flavored whisky on the premise that the flavor is subtle. No indeed, the vanilla is unmistakable. The vanilla scent is upfront but fairly balanced, yet immensely amplified in flavor when sipped. There’s no doubt that it’s smooth, however, with just a little heat upfront that quickly dissipates before being usurped by the vanilla extract. We thought it a little too sweet to be sipped neat but were intrigued by its potential on enhancing some familiar cocktails. We mixed it into a simple whisky and coke and loved it. From apple ciders to Old Fashioneds, this whisky makes for a great twist on holiday drinks. This would be a great addition for your alcohol loving friend, and best of all, you can even customize the bag on Crown Royal’s website to make them feel like royalty.

Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

To celebrate the holiday season, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum has released a “Good Gifts for Bad People” bottle pack. Featuring a limited edition poster and a bottle of their iconic rum, this gift set comes packaged together in a “Bad People” tube that bears the signature tattoo style of Norman Collins. Created in the likeness of Collins himself, Sailor Jerry is raw and unapologetic. Pouring ourselves a sample, we were greeted with the profuse scent of vanilla and cinnamon that seemed to fill the glass. When sipped alone, the vanilla notes were prominent and long lasting but stood in stark contrast to the strong heat of the alcohol. We tried it in a recommended cocktail recipe dubbed ‘Mischief Night,’ which consists of two parts Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, ½ part lemon juice, one part Grade-A maple syrup, 1 ½ parts orange juice and pilsner beer (to taste). Shaken with ice and strained, the drink made for a sweet blend of beer and rum that would easily be a hit at any holiday party. For under $16, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum makes for an excellent stocking stuffer for your brother, dad or uncle. And while you’re at it, pick one up for yourself as well.

TINCUP Whiskey

One would expect a hard liquor from the mountains of Colorado to carry a distinct personality: rugged, strong and free-spirited. TINCUP American Whiskey ($28) is all that and more. Inspired by the hardened gold miners of old and the cups they carried, our first swig surprised us with its bourbon-style profile. Upon further investigation, we learned that TINCUP is a concoction mainly comprised of “high-rye” bourbon distilled in Indiana and a touch of Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey. Brought to life in the East and blended in the West, TINCUP is infused with Colorado character by being cut to proof with Rocky Mountain water. We were altogether pleased with this whiskey, starting with the bottle itself. It’s hexagonal shape with etching on each face calls attention to itself even while standing among the various liquor bottles on our shelf. The aroma is light and pleasant with sweet caramel notes. The flavor profile follows suit with sweet overtones reminiscent of maple syrup and hints of rye spiciness. Underneath its rough and tough exterior, TINCUP is light and easy to drink, with a moderate burn that fades quickly. If this is what those frontier pioneers drank, a hard day’s work in the mines suddenly doesn’t sound so bad.

Havana Club Añejo Clásico Puerto Rican Rum

Many great cocktails trace their origins from the island nation of Cuba. The Mojito. The Margarita. The Daiquiri. The Cuba Libre. And while all these mainstays share a familiar ancestry, they also have one common ingredient: rum. We have to admit things may have gotten out of hand as we experimented with the abundance of drink recipes, but one thing is for certain: Havana Club’s Añejo Clásico Puerto Rican Rum ($21.99) is an affordable and noteworthy rum to craft these cocktails in your home bar. Añejo Clásico gets its rich taste as a result of being aged in oak casks for one to three years before being extracted, blended and returned to the barrels for an additional three months. This seasoning process allows for the rum to pick up its dark color and deep, robust flavor. We enjoyed drinking it neat just as much as mixing it into our plethora of cocktails. But why is this labeled as a Puerto Rican rum, you ask? Fidel Castro’s revolution nearly ended the Havana Club brand, but Barcadi purchased the recipe and began producing it in Puerto Rico to distribute in the U.S. So while you may not be traveling to Cuba anytime soon, you can still enjoy one of this island’s best exports in the comfort of your own home.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-booze/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: Gadgetshttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-gadgets/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-gadgets/#commentsTue, 06 Dec 2016 15:00:17 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60381Adults like toys too, so if you’re on the lookout for a memorable gift, or you just want to treat yourself to an early Christmas present, a cool gadget is always a great option. Of course, prices run the gamut in this arena, so you’ll need to be careful, but whether you’re shopping for the latest fitness tracker or something to please the audiophile in your life, you can find something that fits almost any budget.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

TomTom Spark 3 GPS Watch

There’s a variety of fitness trackers to choose from these days, but very few have been designed with athletes and outdoor enthusiasts specifically in mind, which is what makes the TomTom Spark 3 GPS Watch such an ideal product for runners, hikers, cyclists and even swimmers. In addition to tracking information like distance, speed, pace, time, heart rate and calories burned, the Spark 3 provides live feedback with built-in GPS and a feature called Route Exploration that shows where the path has taken you in order to find your way back to your starting point. It also includes 3GB of storage (roughly the equivalent of 500 songs), so you can listen to music without bringing along your phone, and comes packaged with a very comfortable pair of Bluetooth in-ear headphones that are sweatproof and waterproof. The Spark 3 is a little on the bulkier side compared to some of its competitors, but between the additional features and impressive battery life (up to three weeks in non-GPS mode), that’s one tradeoff that any runner would gladly accept.

Jaybird Freedom In-Ear Wireless Headphones

We weren’t very familiar with Jaybird prior to testing out their latest in-ear wireless headphones, but it’s easy to see why the company has become one of the more trusted premium headphone brands on the market. The Jaybird Freedoms passed the test in all three major areas: style, sound and comfort, especially the latter. There are a variety of mix-and-match fit options inside the box, including standard silicone ear tips, Comply memory foam ear tips for maximum noise isolation and a snugger fit, and silicone ear fins that hug the different sections of your ear to ensure the headphones remain in place. Battery power is also respectable, with up to eight hours of playtime when using the included (albeit bulky) charging clip, while the Share Me feature allows you to share the music you’re listening to with another pair of Freedom earbuds. Though serious audiophiles may not be completely blown away, the ability to customize your EQ settings and save the presets to your headphones using the Jaybird MySound app makes for a truly unique listening experience that will undoubtedly win them over.

Wacom Bamboo Slate

If you’re someone who takes a lot of written notes – whether a student, a businessman or even a graphic designer – it can be arduous trying to convert them to a digital format, which is where a product like the Bamboo Slate comes in handy. The latest in a growing line of analog-to-digital notetaking devices, the Slate allows you to write your notes naturally with a pen on any type of paper and instantly digitize them with the push of a button. You can store, synchronize, edit and enhance your notes right from your Bluetooth-enabled iOS or Android device (and if you’re not near one, the Slate stores up to 100 pages), as well export them as JPGs, PNGs, PDFs or WILLs to all the major cloud services. The device itself is modeled after a clipboard, so it won’t look out of place in more professional settings, and it’s available in two different sizes (A4 letter and A5 half-letter) as well as a folio version that we like more from a portability standpoint. Though the awesome handwriting-to-text feature is only available with a paid subscription service, the free Inkspace Basic subscription gives you 5 GB of storage (or roughly 6000 pages of notes), which is more than enough space for the average user.

DJI Mavic Pro Drone

Drones are one of the hottest gadget gifts this holiday season, and new models are driving sales for consumers and hobbyists who love exploring all the fun and interesting uses for these devices. New features, particularly built-in camera technology, make these gadgets interesting for so many more potential consumers, particularly adventure travelers, hikers, etc. who want to capture video of their exploits. The DJI Mavic Pro is one of the best drones on the market and is available at many retailers. It’s packed with an amazing bundle of features that make it easy to take awesome video, and it’s also portable, so you can easily take it with you on your travels. The advancement in drone and video technology is pretty incredible, especially the ability to have the drone’s camera focus on one person or object and follow them on video as you maneuver the drone. There’s definitely a learning curve in using the Mavic, but the possibilities are endless, making it as much a great gift for yourself as others.

iHome Color-Changing Wireless Speaker

We’ve reviewed a number of really nice high-end speakers in the past, but sometimes you just need something reliable and affordable to blast your music (especially if the recipient is college aged or younger), and the new iHome BT84 definitely fits the bill. Though the audio quality won’t blow you away, the Reson8 speaker chambers provide rich, detailed sound whether the music is coming from the speaker or a pair of headphones via the included AUX-in jack. The internal battery lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge and doubles as a built-in power bank for charging mobile devices on the go, while the speaker itself is IPX4 rated splash proof and water resistant, making it great for pool parties, beach trips and more. Additionally, the iHome BT84 features LED color changing lights with six different modes (including an EQ-style pulse to music) that can be controlled from your smartphone using the free app, providing extra value as a decorative, mini light show of sorts.

Logitech Silent Plus Mouse

There’s nothing worse than sitting next to a heavy clicker while trying to concentrate at the office, the library or your local café. They’re probably not even doing it on purpose – most mice are just made that way. But while we’ve all been guilty of this at some point in our lives, instead of being part of the problem, you can be a part of the solution with the new Silent Plus from Logitech, an ultra-quiet mouse with 90% reduced click sound that eliminates noise and distractions from others around you. Like all of Logitech’s computer peripherals, it’s incredibly easy to set up, and it provides a reliable connection from up to 33 feet away. The Silent Plus also boasts longer lasting battery life compared to other mice (up to two years on a single AA battery) thanks to an auto sleep feature that turns the mouse off when it’s not being used. Although the lack of a traditional “click” noise takes a little while to get used to, it’s a sound you won’t miss for long.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/06/2016-holiday-gift-guide-gadgets/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: Televisionhttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-television/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-television/#commentsMon, 05 Dec 2016 15:30:28 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60357Television fans must love the holidays, because it’s the one time of year when studios unleash a host of massive box sets collecting their favorite dramas and comedies. But while we like to devour an entire TV show just as quickly as the next person, sometimes a little self-discipline is required, which is why we’ve devoted most of this year’s guide to some less time-consuming (and more affordable) suggestions. If you don’t find anything for your friends and family here, a Netflix gift card works just as well.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and check back throughout the week for more additions to our Holiday Gift Guide.

American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson

There’s been a lot of great television this year, and FX’s “American Crime Story” is right up there at the top. Though most people of a certain age remember the media circus surrounding the so-called Trial of the Century, “The People v. O.J. Simpson” manages to feel like an entirely fresh experience, revealing things about the case you may not have known before while also recapturing all the infamous moments. Told largely from the perspective of the lawyers, the show examines topics like race, gender, celebrity and the criminal justice system and how each one affected the outcome of the trial. There’s hardly a dull moment throughout the show’s debut season, including the excellent bottle episode “A Jury in Jail,” which details the mental and physical strain placed on the jurors throughout the lengthy court case. At its core, however, “American Crime Story” is just a really excellent actor’s showcase that features award-worthy performances by Sarah Paulson, Courtney B. Vance and Sterling K. Brown, among others. The series is so engrossing and expertly cast that it’s like watching the murder trial all over again, only this time, with an unrestricted view of the chaos and drama.

The Night Of

“The Night Of” was originally supposed to star James Gandolfini before the actor’s untimely death, but within the first few episodes of the HBO limited series, it’s hard to imagine anyone other than John Turturro in the role. The veteran character actor is so riveting as the down-on-his-luck attorney that it seems a near-certainty he’ll walk away with an Emmy for his performance. He’s that good, and the same could be said for the rest of the cast, including co-star Riz Ahmed and supporting players like Bill Camp, Michael Kenneth Williams and Peyman Moaadi. However, what really elevates “The Night Of” beyond the typical crime drama is the superb writing by co-creators Richard Price and Steve Zaillian, which delivers a probing examination of the systemic problems in the U.S. criminal justice system (from the police, to the prisons, to the lawyers) and how one crime can affect the lives of not only the accused but the people connected to them as well. Though the actual investigation feels a bit rushed, and the series doesn’t hit as many highs in the later episodes, “The Night Of” is an excellent piece of filmmaking that challenges the way we watch television and tell stories.

Game of Thrones: The Complete Sixth Season

The sixth season of “Game of Thrones” was undoubtedly the Year of the Woman, with characters like Cersei, Daenerys, Arya, Sansa, Yara and Brienne all emerging as genuine power players across the Seven Kingdoms. It’s also a season that, despite the dense and complex nature of its storytelling, really put the pedal to the floor as the show barrels towards its inevitable conclusion, inspiring the hashtag #EfficiencyisComing in the process. And this year was nothing if not efficient, even if it spent two whole episodes pretending that Jon Snow was permanently dead when everybody knew that wasn’t the case. Minor quibbles aside, Season Six is one of the best in the show’s history, boasting strong performances from Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (among many others) and top-notch episodes like “The Door” (RIP Hodor) and the Miguel Sapochnik-directed twofer “Battle of the Bastards” and “The Winds of Winter.” For a season that could have easily felt like the banal but necessary prelude to the much-anticipated climax, it doesn’t disappoint, delivering all the drama, political intrigue, action and comedy that “Game of Thrones” fans have come to expect.

Narcos: Season One

With the amount of new content that Netflix debuts every month, you’d be forgiven if a show like “Narcos” flew completely under your radar. Although not as buzzworthy as some of the streaming service’s flagship programs, “Narcos” is a fascinating and well-acted drama about the history of the Medellin cocaine cartel (and in particular, its leader Pablo Escobar) that’s every bit deserving of its high praise. Brazilian actor Wagner Moura is excellent as the notorious drug kingpin, right down to the constant fidgeting with his pants, striking the perfect balance between charming and ruthless. Unfortunately, while co-star Boyd Holbrook handles the exposition-heavy narration really well, his onscreen persona pales in comparison to the charismatic Moura, as well as supporting players like Pedro Pascal and Juan Pablo Raba. Whenever Holbrook isn’t involved, however, “Narcos” rarely disappoints. Though the show starts to lose steam in the final episodes due to the decision to stretch Escobar’s story across two seasons, he makes for such a compelling subject that it’s hard to complain.

Preacher: Season One

Based on Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s groundbreaking comic book series of the same name, “Preacher” is so unlike anything else on television that it’s a small miracle it even exists. Though it’s a bit slow at times, namely due to the thumb-twiddling nature of the first season – which takes place largely before the events of the comic – “Preacher” is the type of show where the journey is more exciting than the destination. It also balances out those quieter moments with some gloriously bonkers sequences (like the airplane, church and motel fights) and a trio of charismatic performances from its three stars. Dominic Cooper is perfectly cast as Jesse Custer, the ex-con turned small-town preacher who becomes possessed by a supernatural entity, but up-and-comers Ruth Negga (as Jesse’s badass ex Tulip) and Joseph Gilgun (as wise-cracking vampire Cassidy) both outshine him in flashier roles. Although the season finale feels like a giant middle finger to those who invested their time in the show, that anarchic energy is exactly what makes “Preacher” such a bizarre and unique TV-watching experience.

Star Trek: 50th Anniversary TV and Movie Collection

It’s hard to imagine anyone who considers themselves a diehard “Star Trek” fan doesn’t already own the original TV series and movies on Blu-ray, but for those who’ve been holding out or just want to upgrade their collection, this massive box set is for you. Released in conjunction with the September 8, 1966 airing of the very first “Star Trek” episode, the 30-disc set includes every TV show and feature film (including the fan-favorite director’s cut of “The Wrath of Khan”) made with the original crew, as well as “Star Trek: The Animated Series,” which has been remastered on Blu-ray for the first time. Other goodies include a new retrospective documentary with over two hours of footage, an exclusive Starfleet pin commemorating the anniversary and mini-posters by artist Juan Ortiz for all six films. Though we’re not crazy about the slapdash packaging of the discs themselves (for instance, the entire TV series is contained within a single, unwieldy plastic case), the outside box will make a great display piece for those who like to showcase their “Star Trek” fandom with pride.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-television/feed/02016 Holiday Gift Guide: Movieshttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-movies/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-movies/#commentsMon, 05 Dec 2016 14:19:05 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=60356While we could easily fill several pages with suggestions of great films and cool box sets that deserve a spot on any holiday wish list, we’ve picked some of our favorites released over the past 12 months. If you can’t find anything worth buying here, then chances are that the person you’re shopping for doesn’t like movies.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and check back throughout the week for more additions to our Holiday Gift Guide.

Captain America: Civil War

“Civil War” has been jokingly referred to as “Avengers 2.5,” and for good reason, because while the movie may be a Captain America sequel in name, it’s a continuation of several different story threads from “Winter Soldier,” “Age of Ultron” and more. Though the film feels a bit crowded at times with all the various characters and cameos (including the introduction of Black Panther and Spider-Man), they never overshadow the central conflict. Unlike “Batman v Superman,” “Civil War” actually gives its characters a reason for fighting, and that goes a long way in legitimizing the ideological and physical clash between its opposing heroes. The movie isn’t perfect – Daniel Brühl’s villainous Zemo is underserved, and the filmmakers ignore a key argument in favor of the anti-registration side – but it does such a good job of balancing the emotionally-charged narrative with some excellent action sequences and fan service that those flaws seem trivial in comparison. “Civil War” is perhaps Marvel’s darkest and most mature film to date, but it still knows how to have fun, and that’s key to its success.

The Nice Guys

Shane Black is to buddy cop films what Raymond Chandler is to hard-boiled crime novels, and his latest movie, the retro detective noir “The Nice Guys,” is arguably his best entry in the genre since redefining the buddy cop formula three decades earlier with “Lethal Weapon.” Although it hits all the usual beats of a Shane Black feature, “The Nice Guys” does so with such remarkable efficiency – brimming with humorous banter, exciting action and even a little heart – that it feels totally fresh. Black and co-writer Anthony Bagarozzi’s dialogue crackles with wit and humor, while the chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe is simply outstanding. The two actors form one of the best double acts in recent memory, and though Crowe is quite good as the sardonic straight man, Gosling is the real standout, delivering a side-splittingly funny physical performance that makes great use of his comedic abilities. “The Nice Guys” doesn’t reinvent the wheel in any way, but it’s a consistently enjoyable flick that reconfirms why Black is the best at what he does.

Sing Street

Writer/director John Carney specializes in making musical fairy tales for the soul, with each film functioning like its own album. If “Once” is his critically acclaimed debut, and “Begin Again” is the more mainstream (but less successful) follow-up, then “Sing Street” is the personal album that gets back to his roots. A semi-autobiographical coming-of-age tale that ranks as one of the most pleasant moviegoing experiences in recent years, “Sing Street” features Carney at his very best. Although there’s not a lot of meat to the story, the film does a good job of tracking Conor’s artistic awakening as he discovers his own identity through experimentation with different musical styles and the awful fashion trends that accompany them. The mostly unknown cast is great, especially Jack Reynor as Conor’s older brother/musical guru, while the original songs (each one better than the last) are catchy enough to believe that the titular band could actually succeed. Though their progress happens a little too easily to be realistic, Carney makes the whole fantasy go down so smoothly that you won’t mind.

Green Room

If Jeremy Saulnier’s slow-burning sophomore effort “Blue Ruin” announced him as a filmmaker to watch, then “Green Room” confirms that he’s the real deal. A brilliantly taut and grisly horror-thriller that defies genre conventions at every turn, “Green Room” is one of the most intense moviegoing experiences in recent years. There’s hardly a single wasted frame in this tightly-paced siege film, turning the screw on its characters (and the audience itself) with some nail-biting tension that doesn’t let up. The violence is gory but never gratuitous, while the lived-in performances – particularly Anton Yelchin’s frightened musician and Patrick Stewart’s surprisingly calm and rational white supremacist – lend an unsettling authenticity to the proceedings. The movie is at its best when the band is trapped inside the titular room, and although the suspense is slightly deflated once the action spills out into the rest of the building, becoming a more visceral affair where duct tape and a box cutter are the primary tools for survival, “Green Room” maintains its vice-like grip on the audience.

Everybody Wants Some!!

Nobody makes “slice of life” movies quite like Richard Linklater. From his directorial debut “Slacker,” to the 1993 cult classic “Dazed and Confused,” to the Oscar-nominated “Boyhood,” Linklater thrives at creating films that you experience rather than simply watch. His latest movie is no different, a spiritual companion piece to “Dazed and Confused” that features the same loose narrative structure. Thankfully, “Everybody Wants Some!!” is so entertaining that the dearth of plot and character development goes largely unnoticed. It’s like hanging out with a bunch of your closest friends for two hours, and while that could have been a disaster with the wrong actors, Linklater’s mostly unknown cast has such amazing chemistry that it all seems effortless. Everyone plays their part, but Glen Powell and Wyatt Russell are the clear standouts, while Zoey Deutch brings a welcome female perspective to an otherwise male-dominated film. Though the forced philosophical discussions are classic Linklater in the worst way, “Everybody Wants Some!!” is a fun and lighthearted throwback to the early 1980s that perfectly captures small-town college life through the director’s nostalgia-tinted glasses.

Finding Dory

Despite its commercial success, “Finding Nemo” wasn’t exactly screaming for a sequel, and yet with “Finding Dory,” Pixar has produced one of their best sequels yet. The movie feels less like a cash grab than a thoughtful continuation of Dory’s personal journey, staying true to what makes the character unique (her short-term memory loss) without being hampered by its limitations, all while finding creative ways to progress the story and further develop Dory as a character. The movie also boasts a better voice cast than the original, including standouts like Ed O’Neill (as a cantankerous octopus named Hank), Ty Burrell (as an insecure beluga whale) and “The Wire” stars Idris Elba and Dominic West (as a pair of lazy sea lions), resulting in several memorable new characters. Hank, in particular, is a visually impressive piece of animation that highlights just how far Pixar has come in the 13 years since the original. Although the film runs a little too long, “Finding Dory” succeeds as a mostly enjoyable sequel that avoids being a complete rehash while still giving fans what they want.

Dr. Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

“Dr. Strangelove” may not be Stanley Kubrick’s most popular film, but it’s arguably his best – a pitch black political satire that’s as hilarious as it is frightening. The movie remains one of the funniest comedies in history thanks to some masterful performances, chief among them Peter Sellers, whose comic brilliance is on full display in three very distinct roles. The madcap title character is the showiest of the bunch, but Sellers generates bigger laughs as the more reserved Mandrake and Muffley, including a classic sequence (famously improvised by the actor) where the latter informs the Russian Premier about the unauthorized attack. George C. Scott is also great as the commie-hating General Turgidson, who serves as the perfect foil to Seller’s straight-laced politico, literally chewing up scenery with his ever-growing wad of gum. The duo’s war room scenes are some of the most entertaining moments in the movie, and while that’s partially due to the actors themselves, it’s Kubrick’s ingenious satirizing of the deadly serious source material (Peter Gregory’s 1958 novel “Red Alert”) that makes “Dr. Strangelove” such a revered comic masterpiece.

The In-Laws

Arthur Hiller’s “The In-Laws” may have had its reputation slightly bruised by the 2003 remake of the same name, but it’s an enjoyable odd-couple comedy that succeeds thanks to the great chemistry between stars Alan Arkin and Peter Falk. This is easily one of the best performances of Arkin’s career, earning a majority of the laughs as the neurotic straight man to Falk’s volatile wise guy. There aren’t many actors who can do deadpan humor quite like Arkin, but it’s to the credit of Falk (who underplays the madness of his character) that it works as well as it does. The movie also features a number of great character actors in early roles, although none do so much with so little as James Hong, who shines in an amusing sequence as the co-pilot of a puddle jumper transporting Vince and Sheldon to Central America. Nothing rivals the famous “Serpentine” gag, of course, but there’s enough hilarity packed into Andrew Bergman’s script that it’s surprising the film isn’t better known.

Scream Factory Horror Films

Don’t know what to buy that diehard horror fan in your life? Look no further than Scream Factory, the sublabel of Shout! Factory that specializes in releasing notable (and underrated) cult horror movies, many of which have never been available on Blu-ray. More recently, the company expanded its reach by acquiring the rights to some of the genre’s most popular films and re-releasing them with new digital transfers and bonus material. The best of the bunch is the 40th Anniversary Edition of Brian De Palma’s “Carrie,” which boasts a 4K digital scan of the original negative, as well as never-before-seen interviews and a featurette on the film’s locations. Other noteworthy titles include genre classics like “The Thing” and “Child’s Play,” as well as lesser-known fare like Don Coscarelli’s horror-comedy “Bubba Ho-Tep,” which stars Bruce Campbell as an aging Elvis Presley who must battle a 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy when it attacks his retirement home. Not all of Scream Factory’s releases are winners, but they’re all treated as such, and that’s why the company has become so trusted among horror fans.

Shout! Select Films

If horror films aren’t your thing, then Shout! Factory’s latest imprint – a sort of poor man’s Criterion Collection called Shout! Select – may be more your speed. Designed with cinephiles in mind, Shout! Select shines a light on movies that deserve a spot on any film lover’s shelf, from celebrated classics to overlooked gems. Kicking off with the 1984 cult classic, “The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension,” other recent titles include the Robert De Niro/Charles Grodin buddy cop film “Midnight Run,” William Friedkin’s “To Live and Die in L.A.” (featuring a new 4K scan approved by the director) and “Bill & Ted’s Most Excellent Collection,” a three-disc box set that includes both movies on Blu-ray together for the first time, as well as several new audio commentaries and retrospectives. Almost every Shout! Select title comes with new bonus material (and in some cases, a new digital transfer), and each spine is numbered for those who want to collect them all. Though that could get pretty expensive over time, isn’t that what the holidays are for?

Fox Ultra HD Blu-rays

With 4K televisions and Blu-ray players slowly making their way into more households, movie studios have embraced the new technology by releasing Ultra HD versions of their latest and most worthy titles. Not every film benefits enough to justify paying twice the price for higher resolution or HDR (high-dynamic-range imaging that offers a much wider array of color and light), but studios like 20th Century Fox have done a good job of selecting titles where consumers will notice the biggest difference. Provided you have the right audio/visual setup, you can bring a theater-level experience right into your home with visually stunning dramas like “The Life of Pi” and “The Martian,” CGI-fueled blockbusters like “Independence Day: Resurgence” and “X-Men: Apocalypse,” and even kids films like “Ice Age: Collision Course.” Although we wish that Fox would actually include UHD digital copies with their 4K discs (after all, it only seems fair), that’s not exactly a deal breaker, at least not until more devices support the format.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2016/12/05/2016-holiday-gift-guide-movies/feed/02015 Holiday Gift Guide: Gameshttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/07/2015-holiday-gift-guide-games/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/07/2015-holiday-gift-guide-games/#commentsMon, 07 Dec 2015 17:27:04 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=50572The holiday season is the video game industry’s busiest time of year, with publishers saving many of their marquee titles to release on the public like an avalanche of digital goodness. It can actually be quite overwhelming with so many different options to choose from, so we’ve done our best to put together a collection of what we feel are some of the year’s best titles, and ones that the gamer on your list will love.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

Star Wars: Battlefront

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it would be like to be a part of the “Star Wars” universe, Electronic Arts’ “Star Wars: Battlefront” lets you live out your ultimate fantasy by dropping you into the middle of the action in some of the most famous locations from the original trilogy. Whether assuming the role of a Rebel soldier or Stormtrooper fighting on the ground, an X-Wing or TIE pilot engaged in a massive dogfight in the skies, or as one of the many legacy characters like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, this is “Star Wars” fan service at its very best. Boasting gorgeous, photorealistic visuals and addictive gameplay, “Battlefront” is the most enjoyable “Star Wars” game since “Knights of the Old Republic.” Though the single player/co-op modes aren’t very exciting (they’re mostly just a place to hone your skills and waste a few hours with a friend), the online multiplayer is where the game really shines. There are nine modes to choose from – including favorites like Fighter Squadron, Heroes vs. Villains and Supremacy – with each one delivering a unique experience from the others. “Battlefront” is the “Star Wars” game that fans have been waiting for, and with more content planned for the future, it can only get better.

FIFA 16

How do you make a great game even better? That’s the challenge put forth each year to EA Sports and their “FIFA” franchise, and every time, they respond in brilliant fashion. Though there aren’t any major changes to the gameplay, “FIFA 16” has implemented some small but important refinements to deliver the most authentic soccer simulation yet. On the field, defending has been given a complete facelift, including the ability to defend better as a unit with enhanced AI awareness, goalkeepers who make less mistakes, and improved tackling mechanics. The EA Sports team has also added something called Passing with Purpose that allows you to ping driven ground passes to teammates in tight spaces, as well as No Touch Dribbling, which gives you more creativity on the ball. Off the field, the changes are even bigger, headlined by the announcement that you can now play as one of 12 Women’s National Teams in a variety of game modes. Career Mode has also received two of the most requested features – pre-season tournaments and player training to increase stats – while Ultimate Team has added a new mode called FUT Draft where you build a team by picking each position from a five-player draw and then compete in challenges to win rewards. This is the most definitive edition of “FIFA” yet, and it’s an absolute must-have for any soccer fan.

Disney Infinity 3.0

The Marvel Universe took center stage in last year’s edition of Disney’s toys-to-life video game franchise, so it only seemed natural that “Star Wars” would play a key role in “Disney Infinity 3.0,” especially with the new film due out in time for Christmas. But while George Lucas’ space adventure saga is undoubtedly the main draw, there’s a lot to love about the latest installment, which makes some big strides towards improving the game’s all-around experience. In addition to some updated Toy Box features, there are two expansion games – the top-down dungeon crawler “Toy Box Takeover” and the kart racer “Toy Box Speedway” – that add extra value to your Infinity collection, as well as three new Play Sets and more than 30 new figures, including your favorite “Star Wars” characters, the “Inside Out” gang, Disney classics like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Hulkbuster and Ultron from the latest “Avengers” movie. That’s a lot of content for one game (and with plenty more on the way), but it offers something for everyone, because while “Disney Infinity” has always been a surefire hit with kids, the addition of “Star Wars” suddenly makes it a lot more appealing to adults too.

Mortal Kombat X

After 2011’s “Mortal Kombat” brought the long-running fighting series back from the dead by basically hitting the reset button on the whole franchise, “Mortal Kombat X” makes some small adjustments to the gameplay while pushing the story into brave new territory. In addition to injecting some much-needed vitality into the series with several new characters that effortlessly blend into the universe alongside veterans like Johnny Cage, Sub-Zero and Scorpion, “Mortal Kombat X” features one of the best story modes that we’ve ever seen in a fighting game. Though it’s very cinematic in nature, incorporating fights throughout each character’s section of the overarching story, it feels a lot more immersive compared to other titles that rely heavily on cutscenes, like you’re actually part of the action. The only other notable change is the ability to choose between three different fighting styles for every character, granting players greater control over how they strategize against certain opponents. Of course, it wouldn’t be “Mortal Kombat” without some gruesome and inventive combat, and “Mortal Kombat X” delivers that in spades. In fact, it relishes those gloriously over-the-top moments a little too much, which is exactly what fans have come to expect from the ultraviolent series.

Guitar Hero Live

Just when it looked like “Guitar Hero” had strummed its last note, the stagnant series has come roaring back to life with this latest edition, which reinvents the popular rhythm game from the ground up. For starters, the guitar has been completely redesigned – replacing the colored, five-button layout with six fret buttons in two adjacent rows at the top of the neck – and though there’s a bigger learning curve involved, it simulates playing a real guitar better. The game itself is divided into two modes: Live and TV. The former places you in the role of a guitarist in various fictional bands performing at a music festival, and it’s all presented in full-motion video from your perspective, capturing the energy of a live show. However, while Live provides a fun but cheesy introduction to the game’s new mechanics, Guitar Hero TV is where it really shines, particularly the 24/7 music channels, which are divided into themed programming blocks that you can jump in and out of on a whim, all while competing against other players to unlock new Hero Powers and more. Though the song collection isn’t as strong as past installments, there’s so much potential within TV mode that the experience will improve as the catalog grows.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/07/2015-holiday-gift-guide-games/feed/02015 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffershttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/04/2015-holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/04/2015-holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers/#commentsFri, 04 Dec 2015 17:20:26 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=50523Sometimes you just need something small to stick in a stocking or as a complement to a bigger present. These are usually lower priced items, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be high quality or require the same level of thoughtfulness. Here are a few cool products to consider for the person that has everything.

Click the links within the write-ups to purchase each product online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.

Orbitkey

Everything is getting slimmer these days – phones, wallets, you name it – but many of us still carry around a bulky set of keys that rattle around in our pockets and make our pants bulge and crease, which is where a product like Orbitkey comes in handy. Made from genuine cowhide leather or TPU Elastomer polymer for active lifestyles, the Orbitkey uses a custom-designed locking mechanism to secure your keys within a slim profile that eliminates rattling keys, protects belongings from scratches and takes up less space. It holds up to seven keys or tools – including an optional bottle opener or key-shaped USB drive, which we highly recommend – and features a D-ring attachment for larger car keys. Though guys will appreciate how much easier it makes carrying keys around in their pocket (whether in the side or the back), the OrbitKey is also great for women who have a habit of scratching their phones from throwing keys into their purse.

SteakChamp 3-Color Thermometer

Whether you’re firing up the grill for tailgating season or counting down the days until next summer, the endeavor for the perfect steak never ends. Between the different cuts of meat and cooking methods available, there are several variables that can affect how your steak turns out, but why would bother taking that chance when there’s a gadget that ensures your preferred doneness every time? The SteakChamp 3-Color Thermometer is an innovative, stainless steel meat thermometer that uses integral temperature measurement to determine when your steak has reached either medium rare (green), medium (yellow) or medium well (red) with an LED light at the end of the probe that flashes the corresponding color. Plus, once the steak has been removed from the grill, the SteakChamp continues to flash to measure the meat’s resting phase, only turning off when it’s reached optimal doneness. Though it’s most effective with beef (and yes, it works exactly as advertised), it can also be used on duck breast, pork loin, lamb, salmon and other game. This is the future of at-home grilling, and it tastes delicious.

Moleskine Star Wars Notebooks

There’s just something about the Moleskine brand that oozes quality, which is probably why it’s become so popular across the world. With an amazing variety of notebooks, journals and planners (and much, much more) available in different sizes and colors to meet your needs, Moleskine is a great gift for just about anyone in your life, whether it’s a simple stocking stuffer or an entire bundle of faux leather-bound joy. With “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” due in theaters this December, Moleskin has expanded its “Star Wars” line with a pair of limited edition, hard cover notebooks that include a montage of scenes from the movie on the inside cover and some cool stickers in every back pocket. Though we wish there were more designs to choose from besides the red-and-black Kylo Ren and white-and-black Stormtrooper themed covers, this is a great way for fans to show off their “Star Wars” passion wherever they go.

]]>http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/04/2015-holiday-gift-guide-stocking-stuffers/feed/02015 Holiday Gift Guide: Boozehttp://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/03/2015-holiday-gift-guide-booze/
http://blog.bullz-eye.com/2015/12/03/2015-holiday-gift-guide-booze/#commentsThu, 03 Dec 2015 13:00:34 +0000http://blog.bullz-eye.com/?p=50479Walk into any liquor store and you’ll see hundreds of options. You can zero in on someone’s favorite drink when picking a gift, or you can get creative and choose something they wouldn’t buy for themselves. Also, remember that you don’t want to come to a party empty-handed, so get in the habit of at least bringing a bottle.

BACARDÍ Gran Reserva Maestro de Ron

If you’re looking for a simple way to class up your bar without breaking the bank, Bacardi’s new Gran Reserva Maestro de Ron is a great addition for under $25. This newly released white rum is crafted to be a high-end mixer, adding a touch of sophistication to the classic cocktails made at home. Besides casually mentioning the “Gran Reserva” label to describe your concoction, you can further impress your guests with the knowledge that the rum has been double aged; it’s initially aged for a year and blended, then returned to white oak barrels for an additional three months. While immediately flavorful upon tasting with light and fruity notes, we found its bite to be a little strong to be sipped on its own. However, stay true to its calling as a mixer, whether in cubas libres, mojitos or daiquiris, and you can’t go wrong. The Gran Reserva was created to pay tribute to the Master Blenders at Bacardi, but everyone might think they passed on some of their distilling secrets to you as well.

Basil Hayden’s Bourbon

Master Distiller Basil Hayden Sr. experimented with the addition of rye to bourbon in 1796, believing the spicy flavor profile of the grain would strikingly complement the sweeter, corn-heavy mash bill, and more than 200 years later, we’re still celebrating his decision one drink at a time. While Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the lowest proof (80 proof, 40% ABV) in Jim Beam’s Small Batch collection, it brings a near double dose of rye (27%) compared to the others. The resulting flavor profile is “blessed with rich hints of peppermint, notes of pepper, slight citrus overtones and a spicy, warming finish.” If that doesn’t sound inviting during the holidays, we’re not sure what does. We can’t get enough of this bourbon, preferring to drink it neat from a bourbon snifter to maximize its aroma and flavor. But we were also very pleased using it as a mixer in Manhattans, allowing for the rye to add an extra layer of depth to the drink. Putting this all together in a nicely packaged bottle, Basil Hayden’s is that bourbon you break out on special occasions like the holidays.

Baker’s Bourbon

Like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, each of the four bourbons in Jim Beam’s Small Batch collection brings something different to the table. Aged for seven years and bottled at 107 proof (53.5% ABV), Baker’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey packs some serious heat. And while we like to put our taste buds to the test with the occasional, high-octane bourbon, Baker’s is no one-trick pony. Its small batch heritage prides itself on delivering a flavorful concoction of toasted nut, fruit and vanilla tasting notes with each sip. Complex and strong, this horse is best tamed with a splash of water, which allows for the undercurrent of flavors to shine forth. If you’re looking to gift a noteworthy liquor that will be long remembered after the holidays are gone, put Baker’s on the list.

TCM Wine Club

There are plenty of wine clubs out there to choose from, but TCM’s new venture is the only one that not only pairs wine with food, but a classic movie as well. We’re surprised someone didn’t think of this sooner, because it’s the perfect gift for wine and movie lovers who want to take the guesswork out of planning a night in by themselves or with their family and friends. As a member of the TCM Wine Club, you’ll receive a shipment every quarter that contains 12 bottles of hand-selected, high-quality varietals from renowned vineyards around the globe and collectible movie-themed wines curated specifically for the club. You can also keep track of your favorite wines and reorder at any time, and even modify your preferences so that you only receive wines you’ll enjoy. The first case (which is specially priced at under $100) features a three-bottle bonus that includes the first-ever release of Café Zoetrope, a custom-crafted red from Francis Ford Coppola Winery, as well as True Grit Limited Edition Zinfandel and The Essentials Cabernet Sauvignon. Though we only had the opportunity to sample two of the bottles being sent to inaugural members, both were solid enough to recommend to anyone who enjoys sipping a glass of vino while enjoying their favorite film.